A terrified store worker was robbed at gunpoint during a late night shop raid in Colchester.

The masked raider went into Dillons store in Hunwicke Road, Greenstead, shortly before 11pm on Sunday night.

Store manager Fred Wake said the two female assistants working at the time of the raid were still in shock.

He said: "It was about 10.45pm when he came into the shop wearing a balaclava and holding a handgun. He got hold of one of my assistants and asked for money. He was given a small amount and then he legged it out of the shop.

"It was terrifying for the girls in the shop and I think it is about time more is done about this kind of thing.

"We are waiting for the council to put up cameras outside the shop. If they had been up we may have caught him on film.

He added: "I don't see why he did it, it was hardly worth it."

Mr Wake said the two girls would be offered counsellling to help them get over their ordeal.

An Essex Police spokesman, said: "The robber put a handgun to the back of a woman member of staff."

The police are now searching for the robber who, by his accent, is thought to be Asian.

The spokesman said the man, who possibly used a pistol for the hold-up, is described as being between 5ft 7in and 5ft 11in tall, wearing a balaclava, jeans and a dark Puffa-style jacket.

Anyone with more information about the robbery should contact Colchester CID on 01206 762212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Scene of the crime - the store which was targeted by armed raiders

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